Looking to Do Good? Consider These Do-Good Island Escapes

Some of us are drawn to beaches, others to mountain vistas. But when we want to escape from the daily pressures of life, many of us choose service as a way to refocus our minds onto something larger than ourselves. So, can you combine a sincere desire to do good with “bucket list” travel? Yes! And further, you can do it without guilt. Our do-good island escapes direct you to important work with cohesive communities – all while you enjoy the cultural and scenic allure that make these destinations internationally popular.

Every island has it’s own character. You can combine service with a do-good island escape every month of the year.

These do-good island escapes may be exactly right for you. Many tourist destinations keep their significant social problems out of public view. But, this self-defeating practice keeps their populations from thriving. Global Volunteers’ objective is to provide service opportunities on development projects wherever and whenever they’re requested.

For instance, in 1988, our partners in the Cook Islands asked for help on programs to discourage youth from emigrating to New Zealand, and taking their talents and potential with them. Read on:

Savannah, volunteer in the Cook Islands, engages preschoolers in a reading lesson.

The original Cook Islanders were a hearty and self-reliant Maori people, who traveled the seas to settle distant volcanic islands – and created a distinct, colorful culture reflecting the natural beauty of their homeland. But by the 1980s, the Cook Islands’ vitality was challenged by economic pressures – which drove the country’s youth abroad. Our work started at the very foundation of Cook Islands society – with the children, to ensure they have the sustained support and opportunities to keep them on the island when they mature. Today, you can tutor students in math and literacy, stimulate and encourage toddlers, help catalog library books, paint and repair buildings and more – all while escaping to one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

Young volunteer Bailey explains card game rules in a St. Lucia primary school.

One of the top do-good island escapes – St. Lucia in the West Indies. Carefree and unspoiled, the island boasts the famous Piton spires and dramatic bays adored by international celebrities. But, even the cruise ports struggle with pockets of abject poverty. We began working with Anse la Raye’s schools and community organizations in 2012 to support and enhance children’s growth and competency. You can tutor and teach students of all ages in sunny classrooms. You’ll discover that although you’re surrounded by the most captivating scenery in the Caribbean, the most beautiful visions are the smiling faces of St. Lucian children!

A summer English language camp favorite for volunteers and students alike!

The do-good island escape on Crete is unlike any other. The craggy and romantic shoreline reminds you of the fishing villages and olive groves of a simpler time. Ancient ruins echo the throbs of civilization’s birth. However, families living on this Mediterranean jewel have not fared well in a decade of failed economic policies. Since 1996, we’ve worked in partnership with local people to help re-build capacity at every level – starting with the youngest students.Teaching English at lively coastal language camps combines the best of this do-good island escape – purpose and escape into beauty!

Where else but in Cuba can you catch a salsa beat with a farmer in a community garden?

The iconic scenes of a Cuban do-good island escape – colorful salsa dancers, classic American automobiles, architecture of the Spanish and Moors – reverberate a complicated history. Traveling back in time is this island’s allure. The bonus of true community service and people-to-people exchange is hard to match anywhere else in the Western hemisphere. Since 2007, we’ve worked with our partners to support the Cuban people – their hopes, dreams, and goals. Enjoy this do-good island escape before the country’s character is changed by inevitable modernization!

Time to Enjoy the Best of Island Culture

Whether you long for a laid-back vibe or a high-intensity Cuban beat, you can combine service with a true do-good island escape. At the end of every work day, and on weekends, you and your teammates have time to explore cultural, historical and natural attractions throughout the island. Contact a volunteer coordinator today to learn more!